The Chakhesang people are believed to have migrated from Makhel as did most of the Naga tribes in the state. There is no written document as such to prove which village is home to the first settlers of the Chakhesang people but as legend has it, Khezakenoma Village, also known as the Naga Legendary Village is thought to be the originating place for many of the southern Naga tribes.

During the British Administration, the Chakhesang people were also part of the Angami tribe and were previously known as the Eastern Angamis. The areas covering Zulhami- Khezhakheno-Zhavame (earlier called Zhamai) – Meluri along the Burma border which is also the last of Phek district had only one EAC Headquarter during that time, and together with Pochury formed the Eastern part of the Angami tribe.

Although many distinctive similarities extending to cultural activities, singing, style of cultivation, and other traditions are being shared both by the Chakhesang and the Angami tribe till date, the need for formation of a separate tribe and community was realized by the Chakhesang people partly for political reasons and mostly to develop its own people socially, economically and educationally.

“Chakhesang”, that literally means “Cha” for Chokri, “Khe” for Khezha and “Sang” for Sangtam (Pochury) was agreed to. until it was unanimously approved in principle by all the leaders and by the Administration at a meeting held in Chizami in the year 1945.

Three major languages are spoken among the Chakhesang people namely Chokri, Khezha and Poumai, with slight variation in tone depending on the range, area and village.

SKRÜNYE is the most important festival and is celebrated on 15th January. During this festival the boys and girls are sanctified through religious ceremonies and rituals.

TSÜKHENYE festival is also an important festival for the Chakhesangs. Earlier it was usually celebrated at the end of the 3rd lunar month of March, but now it is being observed on 6th May.

Reference

Krocha,Vishü Rita & Dukru, Rekha Rose. (2013). Chakhesangs: A Window to Phek District. Multiplex, Redcross complex, Kohima.